My host father Jens, celebrated his 50th birthday on the 29th of January. Together, as a family we threw him a party to mark the occasion.

Sabine, my host mother baked some delicious treats, including a marzipan birthday cake. I helped to prepare a fruit salad, and for dinner we enjoyed the most perfect winter soup also made by Sabine, and of course a winter soup must be accompanied with exquisite dark German bread.

For his birthday, I gave Jens a new tie all the way from Australia. It featured a Kangaroo and he even wore it for the party, during the evening. I had also brought a 50th anniversary packet of Tim Tams from Australia which turned out to be another perfect gift for Jens.

Before the guests arrived, I had the opportunity to take some photos together with my host family as we were all dressed nicely for the evening. Unfortunately, my host brother Justus had been sick and spent the night in hospital. However, he is home now and is getting well again.

Here is Jens and I after I had presented him with his birthday gift from Australia. Followed by some more photos of myself with my host parents, which were taken before the event. 

The party was a success, and I had the opportunity to practise my German by meeting some of Jens and Sabine’s friends. It was a very enjoyable evening including great food and company.